Originally from Maryland, Rachel earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theological Studies from Lee University. She relocated to the Norfolk area and completed her Master of Arts Degree in Human Services – Trauma & Crisis Counseling from Regent University. Rachel has more than ten years of leadership experiences in administration, advocacy, and management in the church and community organizations. With great enthusiasm, Rachel brings her wealth of expertise to her current role of Vice President of Community Engagement and Homeless Employment Services. She believes in the importance, impact, and mission at the URC and loves serving the needs of so many outstanding citizens often overlooked.

Raven began her professional career in the United States Navy where she served overseas for five years. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from Old Dominion University. She is actively pursuing her Masters degree in Social Work at Northern Kentucky University. Raven is very passionate about healthcare and the wellbeing of individuals within the community. When she isn’t collaborating with peers for ways to enhance social justice, Raven loves to read.

Raven serves on the team as Mobility Mentor for NorfolkThrive. The URC is in partnership with United Way of South Hampton Roads to support Norfolk families in their goals in economic mobility. Raven’s professional background, work ethic and personality is perfect for offering a hand-up to families.

Raven not only loves helping people and reading books. She is currently in the process of writing her first book. Raven is happiest spending time with her husband, E’N, and one year old daughter, Kacie.

Born and raised in Upstate NY, Sidney first embarked on her academic journey at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, where she earned her bachelor's degree in biology. She further pursued her education at Boston University, obtaining a master's degree in public health. After graduation, Sidney's deep-rooted passion for health and wellness led her to become a fitness coach. However, her growth mindset prompted her relocation to Norfolk in January 2023. It was here that she realized the incredible fulfillment that comes from volunteering. Sidney experienced firsthand the transformative power of building relationships and making a lasting impact and discovered that true fulfillment lies in service and connection with others. This newfound understanding fuels her excitement for this opportunity with the URC.

In her spare time, Sidney enjoys fitness training, skiing, soccer, and other activities that keep her active. Her beloved companion, Donnie, is her loyal canine best friend, and she enjoys time spent with her family and friends. 

A lifelong learner, educator, researcher, and writer, Melissa is passionate about advocating for those society overlooks, oppresses, or marginalizes. She believes every individual has the capacity to grow and change, no matter what challenges or obstacles they face. She values the power of story as a conduit for understanding and views education as essential to individual freedom and societal wholeness.

Melissa has developed and taught courses in a variety of settings, including public schools, graduate schools, virtual schools, and homeschool co-ops. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in English Education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; a Master’s degree in English and Literacy Education and an Educational Specialist degree in Curriculum Development, both from the University of Michigan; and a Doctor of Philosophy in Special Education from Liberty University.  

Rarely seen without a book and a pen in hand, Melissa loves frequenting local coffee shops, curating her personal library, playing strategy games, and following Carolina basketball. Her faith and her family are at the heart of everything she does.

Alice Randle is a native of Virginia. After graduating from high school, she attended nursing school at Electronic Institute of Technology (ECPI). After graduating from ECPI, Alice accepted a job with Lake Taylor Hospital and Alternative Behavior Services as a residential counselor. Because of her passion for youth and her desire to see young scholars reach their fullest potential, Alice joined Norfolk Public Schools’ (NPS) team of educators, where she has been employed for over 30-years. For the past 20-years, she has worked as a Family Engagement Specialist with NPS.

Alice has always been instrumental in keeping youth engaged & involved with positive community activities and has invested time with partnering parents with great organizations such as the URC. For several years, she has assisted the URC with recruiting students for their Summer Impact Program. Alice has also worked as the assistant to the director. Currently, she is serving as the Student Support Specialist for the Impact Youth Art’s Program. Alice has received numerous awards. For two consecutive years, she was nominated for the NPS School Bell Award. Alice currently lives in Norfolk, VA, where she spends her free time relaxing with her two sisters and hanging out with her three grandchildren. Affectionately, known as “Nana,” by her grandchildren; Alice constantly encourages them to “live a life worth reading about.” You can also find her beading jewelry. She is the founder and former owner of “Beaddazzled by Alice.”